Cobia & Mahi-Mahi Charter in Charleston, SC
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
6hour nearshore reef fishing charter targeting multiple speciesPursue Cobia, King Mackerel, Amberjack, Grouper, and DolphinfishSmall group experience with maximum 6 guests aboard
Charleston's nearshore reefs are some of the most productive fishing grounds on the East Coast, and this 6-hour charter puts you right in the heart of the action. Four Sons Charters knows exactly where the fish are holding, and we're talking about quality species here - cobia, king mackerel, red snapper, amberjack, and those beautiful mahi-mahi that'll have your drag screaming. This isn't your typical inshore trip; we're heading out to the structure where the big boys live. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work your lines without bumping into each other. The captain's been running these waters for years, so you're in good hands when it comes to finding fish.
Your day starts early - that's when the fish are most active and the bite is hottest. We'll steam out to the nearshore reefs and artificial structures that hold these pelagic species. The water clarity out here is usually pretty good, especially during the warmer months, which makes sight fishing for cobia absolutely electric. You'll be working a mix of live bait and artificials depending on what the fish want that day. The captain reads the water conditions, checks the temperature breaks, and positions the boat where the action is most likely to happen. Don't worry about bringing gear - everything's provided, from the rods and reels to the tackle box full of proven producers. The boat's rigged with downriggers, outriggers, and all the electronics you need to locate schools of baitfish and the predators following them around.
We're talking about a variety of fishing methods here, which keeps things interesting all day long. For the mahi-mahi, we'll often troll ballyhoo rigs behind the boat, working those temperature breaks where the water color changes. When we mark cobia on the fish finder or spot them cruising the surface, it's time to switch to sight casting with live eels or large jigs. King mackerel respond well to slow-trolled live bait or wire-line presentations with spoons and plugs. The amberjack are typically holding tight to the bottom structure, so we'll drop down heavy jigs and work them vertically. Red snapper fishing means bottom rigs with circle hooks and fresh cut bait - simple but effective. The tackle is sized right for these fish; we're not using light gear that'll tire you out or heavy tackle that takes the fun away. Medium to heavy spinning gear and conventional reels spooled with 20 to 40-pound test gets the job done.
King mackerel are the speed demons of the nearshore waters, and Charleston's reefs produce some real torpedoes. These fish typically run 15 to 30 pounds, though 40-pounders show up regularly. Spring through fall is prime time, with the best action happening when the water hits that sweet spot between 68 and 75 degrees. What makes kings so exciting is their initial run - they'll strip line off your reel like you're hooked to a freight train. Plus, they're excellent table fare when prepared right.
Mahi-mahi, or dolphinfish as the old-timers call them, are probably the most beautiful fish you'll pull over the rail. Their colors are absolutely stunning - electric blues, greens, and golds that seem to glow. Most of the mahi we catch range from 10 to 25 pounds, though cow dolphin over 40 pounds cruise these waters. They're most active from late spring through early fall when the Gulf Stream pushes closer to shore. These fish travel in schools, so when you hook one, get ready - there are usually more down there waiting.
Cobia are the bruisers that'll test your tackle and your patience. These brown sharks, as some folks call them, can reach 50 pounds or more and they fight like they're twice that size. They're curious fish that often cruise near the surface around structure, which makes for some fantastic sight fishing opportunities. Peak season runs from April through September, with the bigger fish showing up during the spawn. Cobia have this habit of following other hooked fish to the boat, so keep a rod ready for a follow-up cast.
Yellowtail amberjack are the weight lifters of the reef. These fish average 20 to 40 pounds and they'll take you straight to the bottom if you let them. They're year-round residents, but the cooler months often produce the biggest fish. What's great about amberjack is their willingness to bite - they're not particularly finicky and they'll hammer a well-presented jig or live bait. The fight is all about power and endurance; they don't make long runs but they'll test your back muscles.
Red snapper are the prize of the bottom fish world, and when they're in season, there's nothing better. These fish are smart and structure-oriented, hanging around the reefs and wrecks in good numbers. They typically run 3 to 8 pounds, but 10-pound-plus fish are definitely in the mix. Red snapper season is regulated, so we fish for them when it's legal and ethical. Their white, flaky meat is considered some of the best eating in the ocean, and they're beautiful fish with those bright red sides and distinctive profile.
Six hours on Charleston's nearshore reefs with experienced guides who know where to find the fish - that's a recipe for a memorable day on the water. The variety of species keeps everyone engaged, from the experienced angler to the first-timer. You're not just buying a fishing trip; you're investing in local knowledge, quality equipment, and access to some of South Carolina's most productive fishing grounds. The fish are out there year-round, though spring through fall typically offers the most consistent action. Four Sons Charters
Our fully-equipped sportfishing boat puts you right where the action is off Charleston's coast. This motorboat comes loaded with everything serious anglers need – a powerful fish finder to locate those productive wrecks and reefs, GPS to navigate the waters efficiently, and an onboard ice box to keep your catch fresh. The multimedia system keeps everyone entertained during the ride out to the fishing grounds. With comfortable seating for up to 6 anglers and an onboard toilet, you can focus on what matters most – landing those trophy Cobia, King Mackerel, and Mahi-Mahi that cruise these South Carolina waters. The boat's design makes fighting fish easier while providing stable casting platforms for everyone aboard. Perfect for targeting the nearshore reefs where Grouper and Amberjack hang out around structure, this charter boat gets you to the hotspots quickly so you can maximize your time with lines in the water. Whether you're after that bull Cobia or a colorful Dolphinfish, this vessel has the range and equipment to make it happen.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the "brown sharks" that aren't sharks at all - these chocolate-colored bruisers average 20-40 pounds and can hit 100+. Spring migration (April-June) brings them through Charleston's waters in 30-70 feet, often cruising near the surface around buoys, wrecks, and reefs. They're curious fish that'll come up to investigate the boat, making them perfect for sight fishing. What guests love is the powerful fight and excellent eating - firm, white meat that rivals any fish. Cobia are loners, so it's usually one fish per spot. Here's what works: when you see one, drop a bucktail jig or live bait right in front of it and work it slowly. They're notorious for following baits, so be patient.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are fast, aggressive fish that'll average 15-30 pounds around Charleston's nearshore waters. We find them cruising 40-150 feet deep along structure and drop-offs, especially during warmer months from May through October. These silver torpedoes with razor-sharp teeth are known for blistering runs that'll test your drag system. What makes them special is the combination of speed and table fare - their firm, flaky meat is outstanding grilled or blackened. Kings typically hit live bait or fast-moving trolling lures. Here's a local trick: use a wire leader with two hooks - one through the nose of your live bait and a trailing treble hook, since kings often attack the tail section of baitfish first.
Seriola LalandiAmberjack are the bullies of the reef - powerful, stubborn fish that'll average 20-40 pounds but can push much bigger. We target them around structure in 60-120 feet, where they patrol rocky bottom and artificial reefs year-round, with peak action in warmer months. These bronze-colored fighters are known for bulldogging straight down when hooked, testing your gear and patience. Anglers love the challenge and the reward - excellent white meat that's great smoked or grilled. They're aggressive feeders that'll hit live bait, jigs, or even topwater when fired up. Local tip: when you hook one, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to the structure, or they'll wrap you up and break you off every time.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the prize of the bottom - beautiful crimson fish that typically run 2-8 pounds, though bigger ones lurk in deeper water. We find them on hard bottom, ledges, and structure in 60-200 feet, with best fishing during summer months when seasons allow. They're scrappy fighters that'll dive straight for cover when hooked. What makes them special is the sweet, nutty flavor that's made them a restaurant favorite for decades. Snapper are structure-oriented and often school up in good numbers. The key is getting your bait to the bottom fast - use heavy weights with circle hooks and fresh cut bait. Once you find them, work the area thoroughly since they tend to stack up in specific spots.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are the chameleons of the sea - brilliant gold and green underwater, then flashing through a rainbow of colors when brought to the boat. Most run 15-30 pounds, though we've seen some push 40+. Look for them around floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks in 100+ feet of water during summer and early fall. They're surface dwellers that love to jump and make multiple runs, giving anglers a real show. The meat is firm, white, and sweet - perfect for grilling. These fish travel in schools, so where there's one, there's usually more. My go-to technique is trolling with ballyhoo or casting live bait near any floating objects we spot offshore.
Charleston